Farm Credit offers ‘Fresh from Farm’ grants

BAINBRIDGE – Southwest Georgia Farm Credit is now accepting applications for its Fresh from the Farm mini grant program. This program provides a partnership with local farmers markets by promoting and supporting farmers who own/operate produce stands that sell locally grown products.

“These grants provide an opportunity for local producers who manage or own a roadside stand or market to promote their businesses and expand their reach,” Brian Wilson, chief relationship manager at Southwest Georgia Farm Credit, said in a news release.

Southwest Georgia Farm Credit began the Fresh from the Farm mini grant program seven years ago as a way to provide cash for marketing and promotions to roadside u-picks and farmers markets.

“The Fresh from the Farm program is an opportunity for us to collaborate with those farmers who sell locally grown produce in their communities,” Wilson said.

Through an application process, the association picks 10 qualifying producers each year and donates $500 to each, mostly for marketing and promotional purposes.

The application for Fresh From the Farm mini grants is available at the Conferences/Grants Link under the Learn Tab at SWGAFarmCredit.com or by contacting Kathy Foreman at (229) 493-0918 or by email at [email protected]. Completed grant applications can be mailed to Southwest Georgia Farm Credit, Attention: Fresh from the Farm, 305 Colquitt Highway, Bainbridge, Ga. 39817; emailed to [email protected], or faxed to (888) 834-9128.

Completed applications must be received by April 12.

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